AutoForget the Tesla Model S, you want the Volkswagen ID.7 insteadThe VW ID.7 is big on capacity and range, making it an attractive Tesla alternative for familiesWhen you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.
AutoForget the Tesla Model S, you want the Volkswagen ID.7 insteadThe VW ID.7 is big on capacity and range, making it an attractive Tesla alternative for familiesWhen you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.
The VW ID.7 is big on capacity and range, making it an attractive Tesla alternative for families
When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.
(Image credit: Future / Mike Lowe)
(Image credit: Future / Mike Lowe)
The lid has finally been lifted on the sixth car in the Volkswagen EV range, the ID.7, whichI got to drive in late Marchin its then-camouflaged pre-reveal aesthetic. Now the VW ID.7 has been unveiled in full – and I think it’s a mighty attractive Tesla Model S alternative.
The VW ID.7 is all about offering a stack of space, as the largest model in the ID range. Yep, it’s even longer than anID.Buzzvan, with its almost-5-metre length meaning even the rear seats feature an abundance of legroom for those beyond 6-feet tall.
I think the ID.7 certainly looks the part, too, with a design that brings new elements to Volkswagen’s family. Its front is less rakeish than the smaller ID.3 and ID.4 models, for example, and from certain angles – especially in this white finish, as my pictures show – there’s some resemblance to the Model S, hence the inevitable comparison.
The ID.7 likely won’t be as pricey as its Tesla competitor either, with prices expected to start from the “mid £50,000s” mark in the UK, potentially undercutting its key Californian rival and further adding the pressure on Mr Musk.
Image1of3(Image credit: Future / Mike Lowe)(Image credit: Future / Mike Lowe)(Image credit: Future / Mike Lowe)
Image1of3(Image credit: Future / Mike Lowe)(Image credit: Future / Mike Lowe)(Image credit: Future / Mike Lowe)
Image1of3
(Image credit: Future / Mike Lowe)(Image credit: Future / Mike Lowe)(Image credit: Future / Mike Lowe)
(Image credit: Future / Mike Lowe)(Image credit: Future / Mike Lowe)(Image credit: Future / Mike Lowe)
(Image credit: Future / Mike Lowe)
(Image credit: Future / Mike Lowe)
(Image credit: Future / Mike Lowe)
(Image credit: Future / Mike Lowe)
(Image credit: Future / Mike Lowe)
(Image credit: Future / Mike Lowe)
(Image credit: Future / Mike Lowe)
(Image credit: Future / Mike Lowe)
(Image credit: Future / Mike Lowe)
(Image credit: Future / Mike Lowe)
(Image credit: Future / Mike Lowe)
(Image credit: Future / Mike Lowe)
(Image credit: Future / Mike Lowe)
(Image credit: Future / Mike Lowe)
(Image credit: Future / Mike Lowe)
I do still find the climate controls are far too buried within, though, a criticism I’ve aligned with all VW ID vehicles to date (you can’t manually close the air vents either, they’re digitally controlled on the screen, including their directional output).
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(Image credit: Future / Mike Lowe)
(Image credit: Future / Mike Lowe)
Inevitably there are packs to add additional features, of course, from a Harmon Kardon soundsystem, to integrated dynamic lighting, even ‘ergoPremium’ seats which include both heating and cooling and, if you want it, a massage function. Very slick.
Now some may call out my VW ID.7 versus Tesla Model S on account of available range. But in its 85kW battery capacity, Volkswagen is aiming to deliver 435 miles of range per charge (with 200kW charging meaning a 10-to-80-per-cent recharge in 25 minutes). Sure, WLTP ratings are easy to call into question, and Tesla’s fairly reliable 405 miles of range has stood up to scrutiny over time. Still, it’s close between the two, so range needn’t be a deciding factor.
With Volkswagen going all-in on its all-electric range, the ID.7 really tops off the options – especially for those seeking a saloon rather than a chunkier SUV – with a visual appeal I find sleeker than its smaller-car options and at a price point that’s generally agreeable too. So if you’ve pondered buying a Tesla Model S then, well, I think Volkswagen’s onto something strong with the ID.7.
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